Beauceron

Beauceron’s history can be traced back to Middle-Age France when French shepherds had a dog breed that helped them take care of their large flocks of sheep and other livestock. These dogs have always been known as “gentle” herders that have a softer and friendlier approach to the flock they are guarding. It is said that the Bas Rouge does not scare the livestock it is guarding.

The Beauceron is closely related to the Briard, in fact, they were considered to be the same breed as far as 1896. Up to that point, these dogs were a part of the same breed and were only distinguished by the length of the coat. Modern-day Beaucerons are still used for herding and shepherding across France and have been enlisted in the French army for military and police work. They are still considered to be one of the most versatile dog breeds in the world.

The Beauceron’s characteristics have developed through centuries of selective breeding and breed evolution. It has a thick, protective double coat that was developed as an insulator from harsh weather these dogs had to endure lots of time. It is a rather large dog that is quite strong and sturdy.

The Beauceron’s nose is always black in color and their slightly-oval eyes can be various shades of brown, depending on the shade of tan color in their coat. Their ears are set high on their head, either pricked or flat, but are never falling close to their face. The Beauce Sheepdog is deep-chested with long, powerful limbs and a long tail that has a “J” shape.

Beauceron standards

The Beauceron standards may vary from association to association and the two main ones we will mention here are the AKC and the FCI standard. The FCI standard places the Beauce Sheepdog in Group 1 (Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs, except Swiss Cattle Dogs), Section 1 (Sheepdogs) while the AKC standard places these dogs in the Herding group.

The required size for the Bas Rouge according to the FCI standard is 25,5-27 in (65-69 cm) for the male dogs and 24-26,5 in (61-68 cm) and the AKC standard requires the same size measurements.

The Beauceron was registered by the FCI on the 25th of November 1963 and by the AKC in 2007.

Grooming

Beauceron dogs shed a lot. You will have to prepare for regular brushing sessions if you want to keep the amount of hair under control and keep your dog look good. Twice a year during the shedding season these dogs will shed massively and at that time you will have to brush your dog daily.

Beauceron coat colors:

• Black and tan
• Gray, black and tan - harlequin

They will also need other basic care; brush their teeth at least three times a week. Check their ears for signs of infection and redness, bathe them regularly, and trim their nails if they don’t wear them down naturally.

Exercise

This is a high-energy dog that requires daily activity to spend his energy. Beauceron will enjoy all the fun activities such as long walks, hiking, canine sports, or just playing with his owner. To make this dog happy, you will have to devote your time to playing sessions if you don't want him to develop behavior problems. In fact, they will become bored and destructive if they don't spend all their energy outside.

Beauceron temperament

The Beauceron’s temperament is rather sensitive and affectionate with their owners and their families. The Beauce Sheepdog can seem scary, but the truth is they have a soft side.

They have a natural distrust towards strange dogs as well as people and that trait makes them great watchdogs.

The Beauceron is brave and has plenty of energy to participate in all family activities. They are highly trainable and intelligent so it is no wonder that the French army recruits these dogs for service.

Training

The training of a Beauceron is extremely important because it is a large dominant breed that can become dominant if the owner doesn’t assume that position right away. They are intelligent dogs that will test your limits and boundaries.

If you decide to teach the Bad Rouge basic commands, it shouldn’t be a problem because they react and learn quickly. Make sure you keep training sessions no longer than 45 minutes and include loads of treats and praises.

Beauceron socialization

For your new Beauceron puppy socialization will be a very important part and process of their lives. These dogs are naturally suspicious and distrustful towards strangers so make sure your Beauceron’s socialization process starts as soon as possible.

Expose your new Bas Rouge puppy to different sights, sounds, people, and dogs from the moment it arrives at your home. Start socializing them while they are still young and that way you will have a great dog that is capable of great behavior no matter what situation they might find themselves in.

Kids

Early socialization and proper training can teach them to behave even when children are around. Their temperament makes them more suitable for families with older children. If you train and socialize your dog well, your children will get a great playing partner that has plenty of energy. These dogs can play for hours upon hours without getting tired or bored. Your children will also get a guard dog that is naturally suspicious of strangers, and you can be sure that they will warn you about any potential dangers approaching your kids.

Other animals

Beauceron dogs can live with other dogs and pets if they are raised together. However, they can become aggressive towards strange dogs outside of the house.

Health problems

Like any other dog breed, the Beauceron can potentially develop health problems. If you are buying a dog, make sure the breeder can provide you with the necessary health tests and guarantees. Always ask to see the results of tests from the puppy’s parents. The health problems these dogs are associated with are: 

• Hip dysplasia - Genetic problem affecting hips resulting from an improperly formed hip joint.
• Gastric Torsion - Also known as bloat. A dangerous condition that causes the stomach to twist (torsion).
• Eye problems
• Allergies - these dogs are prone to have allergic reactions to specific foods, products, or medications.

The Beauceron is generally considered a very healthy breed that can live 10-12 years. 

Breeders

This dog breed is not for everyone and we advise you that you make your research before you go after Beauceron. You will need to dedicate your time and energy to training and socialization if you want to end up with a dog you can control. When you decide to search for Beauceron breeders, always buy a dog from a responsible and official breeder. By doing so, you can be sure that you will get the best possible dog because a good breeder takes good care of their breeding dogs and their puppies. If you have any questions or doubts any good breeder will welcome your questions because they also want their puppies to go into a good home.

When you bring your new puppy home start with the training and socialization immediately. By doing so, you will end up with a well-behaved dog whom you can trust. Provide him with enough daily exercise for him to be happy. With this dog, you must be firm and you must be an alpha for him to listen to you. If you devote your time and energy to this dog, you can be sure that you will end up with a companion for life.

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